London larder: Leila's Shop (E2)

Owner Leila McAlister has created a unique food store/ grocer in Leila’s Shop (@Leilas_Shop ), right next door to her original cafe. Outside, fresh produce is displayed in woven baskets, glazed bowls and wooden crates. From the awnings of this once-fruit monger hang festive shopping baskets and on a Saturday morning, if you're lucky, you might stumble upon a food producer offering tastings surrounded by eager locals and foodies. Inside, Leila’s straight-from-the farm approach continues with more seasonal produce, cheeses, breads, leaf teas and coffees. Again platters and baskets are used including those originally used by porters at the old Covent Garden Market. Like a country larder, this cramped and inviting space has all the feel of a home kitchen – crowded and filled with treasured ingredients and wares. 

Address:  15-17 Calvert Ave, E2 7JP. Tel. Phone: 020 7729 9789 
Opening hours: Wed – Sat, 10.00 – 18.00; Sunday 10.00 – 17.00
Online: No; however, for those in the area, seasonal boxes can be delivered.

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